Aeroflex Test Solutions and 7 layers have signed an agreement to provide LTE testing services in support of the commercialization of LTE mobile phone networks in Japan. Aeroflex will install its 7100 LTE digital radio test set in the 7 layers’ laboratory in Yokohama, Japan, greatly expanding the company’s LTE regulatory compliance testing services.

With advanced LTE test equipment and services conveniently located, Japanese user equipment manufacturers and network operators can speed up testing in advance of LTE rollout. Starting this month (May), 7 layers will offer LTE testing services in three areas: regulatory compliance, certification and operator-specific test cases.

The first Japanese LTE networks are scheduled to launch later in 2010. Prior to LTE rollout, both operators and handset manufacturers must ensure that LTE devices meet regulatory requirements and work reliably. 7 layers, using the 7100 LTE test set, will provide equipment and services to aid developers in proving that their devices are ready for commercial launch.

“The combination of Aeroflex’s advanced roadmap, versatile test capability and pricing allows us to offer a range of services to the industry that will help accelerate the successful rollout of LTE,” said Tadatsune Takei, Representative Director, 7 layers Japan. “7 layers extensive LTE experience includes LTE testing in a number of our laboratories as well as LTE test case validation.”

Masahiro Okabe, Country Manager, Aeroflex Test Solutions, Japan, added, “Handset manufacturers have a legal obligation to perform regulatory testing. They also need to prove to operators that they fully comply with LTE specifications and meet the demanding data throughput requirements that are crucial to the success of LTE. Our agreement with 7 layers can help speed up LTE commercialization in Japan by providing local access to the most advanced LTE test equipment.”